Daniel Andreas San Diego, once listed among the FBI's top ten most wanted terrorists, has been apprehended in Wales.
After eluding international law enforcement for over 20 years, the notorious fugitive was taken into custody in a remote area of North Wales, Mail Online reported.
On Monday, 25 November 2024, in the serene forest surroundings of Conwy, authorities successfully ended the long pursuit. Involved in the arrest were the National Crime Agency (NCA), North Wales Police, and Counter Terrorism Policing.
San Diego was located in a secluded property, carefully hiding away from the prying eyes of law enforcement worldwide. The arrest brought an end to decades of intensive searching and multiple international alerts.
The 46-year-old fugitive has been a significant figure on the FBI’s radar since being linked to bombings at two corporate facilities in San Francisco, California, in August 2003. These acts of sabotage were directed at a biotechnology company in Emeryville and a nutritional products company in Pleasanton.
Although the bombings did not result in any physical injuries, they were characterized by their potential for harm, such as one device being encased in nails. A month after the attacks, a federal warrant was issued for San Diego's apprehension, but he managed to avoid capture until now.
The extensive manhunt highlighted San Diego’s connections to animal rights extremist groups and his avoidance tactics, including potentially altered tattoos and a lifestyle that supported his stealth, including a staunch adherence to veganism.
The former fugitive, known for his international travels and sailing skills, proved elusive, securing a spot on the FBI's most wanted list. The situation escalated to a $250,000 reward offered for information leading directly to his capture.
An NCA spokesperson described the coordinated effort that led to San Diego’s arrest: “On Monday 25 November 2024, officers from the National Crime Agency, supported by colleagues from Counter Terrorism Policing, and North Wales Police, arrested Daniel Andreas San Diego at the request of the U.S. authorities.”
FBI Director Christopher Wray expounded on the case: "There's a right way and a wrong way to express your views in our country, and turning to violence and destruction of property is not the right way. Daniel San Diego's arrest after more than 20 years... shows that no matter how long it takes, the FBI will find you and hold you accountable."
The charges against San Diego date back to a 2004 indictment by the US District Court, Northern District of California. They concern his alleged involvement in the 2003 bombings, marking a significant breakthrough in a case that has spanned decades.
Following his arrest, San Diego faced immediate legal proceedings for his return to the United States. He appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court the following day, where extradition protocols commenced, and he was remanded in custody.
The controversy surrounding San Diego’s motives, affiliations, and actions remains prominent. Analysts and officials hope that his capture will not only bring justice but also deter similar extremist activities linked to ideological beliefs.
In conclusion, Daniel Andreas San Diego’s capture in Wales marks a significant point in the ongoing fight against domestic terrorism. His arrest brings a long-awaited resolution to a pursuit that tested the limits of international police work and collaborative law enforcement efforts.
